Inspiration Destination: China Lights Festival at Boerner Botanical Gardens

It’s beginning to feel a lot like fall. The leaves are changing, the air is getting crisp, and that means it is time to celebrate with… China Lights! I love new experiences, and the lights, atmosphere, colors, entertainment—everything here is fantastic.

The walking tour starts right when you enter at the gates. There are 45 exhibits laid out perfectly in the garden grounds. Each display teaches you a little more about the Chinese culture and the lantern festivals that are celebrated all across Asia.The show depicts art, skill, and beauty combined.

It’s amazing how the lights and fabric project differently for each display. Some were soft and calming, while others were loud and energetic. With every turn of a corner, my anticipation and excitement grew as I waited to see what display was up next!

Show-stopping displays

One of my favorite displays was of a peacock. I might be biased because I love peacocks, but this display is a show-stopper. The colors really pulled me in. The feathers had a light, airy feel to them which did a good job representing real peacock feathers. The artist statement explained that in Chinese culture, peacocks symbolize kindness, intelligence, and beauty. What is there not to like?

Walking around, I learned all about endangered animals and what they mean to the Chinese culture. I also discovered interesting facts on Panda bears. Did you know they have existed for at least 8 million years? This blew me away, and I couldn’t wait to see the habitat they have lived in for so many years. You really get absorbed into this display when you walk through the bamboo tunnel and see panda bears surrounding you.

More than just lights

I took a break from walking around and enjoyed a performance which taught me about traditional dances, tai chi, and how these impressive displays were made.

Designers create the initial look and feel of the display. Next, the architects work out how everything is going to come to life. Then, welders put the structures together and place the lights. Finally, the fabric is glued on and finishing touches are added by hand-painting flowers and small details onto the fabric. I feel I’d want to be in the beginning design process and see my work come to life at the end. Or maybe I just let the experts do their job and I’ll enjoy the results while eating some delicious potstickers.

So, if you’re looking for something new to do or want to take a nightly walk in the crisp, fall air, take a trip to the botanical gardens and take in this great light display!

China Lights Festival

Tuesday-Sunday: 5:30 – 10 p.m., through Oct. 21

Rachael Kwiatkowski